SDLP’s Mark Durkan to step down
Speculation has started as to who will replace Mark Durkan as leader of the SDLP.
He has confirmed his intention to stand down after the next General Election – if he retains his Westminster seat.
It is thought the frontrunners are the party’s deputy leader and South Belfast MP Alasdair McDonnell, the North Belfast MLA Alban Maginness and the Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie.
49-year-old Mr Durkan replaced John Hume as leader of the SDLP in 2001.
An SDLP spokesman said of Mr Durkan: “In the future he will continue to play a strong role in the leadership of the party and will remain fully committed to the SDLP, the Good Friday Agreement and his constituents.”
“As the SDLP moves to celebrate its 40th anniversary next year, the party intends to bring forward a number of new faces for the Westminster election and with an eye to local government and Assembly elections in 2011.” he added, “The change in leadership of the party will be part of this transition.
“The process of change in the party leadership will now be addressed in a sensible and orderly fashion.”
